By Philip Pullella

VATICAN CITY, (Reuters) – Pope Francis led the Roman Catholics around Christmas with a statement that indifferent people to the poor offend God. He urged everyone to look beyond the decorations and to remember those who need them most.

Francis celebrated the ninth Christmas under his pontificate. It was attended by approximately 2,000 people. COVID-19 has limited participation to a fraction of those in pre-pandemic years.

Italy announced a record number of COVID-19 infections just minutes before Christmas Eve Mass began. The new infection rate was 50,599.

Francis in white vestments weaved his homily about the theme Jesus was born without anything.

As sisters and brothers we are standing in front of the crib contemplating what is central. It transcends all decorations and lights that may be beautiful. He said this in the Mass con-celebrated together with over 200 bishops, cardinals and priests. He was the only one who wore masks.

Francis turned 85 on Monday. He said that the birth of Jesus in poverty reminded people that it is better to serve others than seek status, social visibility, or spend a lifetime chasing success.

Francis said that “It’s in them (the poor),” and has made the defense of the poor an integral part of his pontificate.

“On this night, let us have one fear. That we might offend God’s love or hurt him by treating the poor indifferently. Jesus loved them deeply, and they’ll one day welcome us to Heaven,” he stated.

He quoted a line from a poem by Emily Dickinson – “Who has found the heaven – below – Will fail of it above” – and added in his own words: “Let us not lose sight of heaven; let us care for Jesus now, caressing him in the needy, because in them he makes himself known.”

Francis said the shepherds, who were working people, saw the infant Jesus first. Francis also lamented that so many people are killed in work accidents all over the globe.

Let us repeat, on the Day of Life: No more workplace deaths! Let us also commit to this,” he stated.

International Labour Organisation of the United Nation (ILO), estimates there are approximately a million workplace-related deaths each year.

Francis will give his two-yearly Urbi et Orbi (to the city, the world) blessing from St. Peter’s Basilica’s central balcony on Saturday.